The credit score needed to buy a house can vary depending on a number of factors, including the type of mortgage you are seeking and the lender you are working with. In general, however, a credit score of at least 620 is considered a minimum for most mortgage programs.
Lenders use credit scores to evaluate the risk of lending money to borrowers. A higher credit score can make it easier to qualify for a mortgage and may result in a better interest rate and more favorable terms. A lower credit score can make it more difficult to qualify for a mortgage or result in a higher interest rate and less favorable terms.
There are several types of mortgage programs available, each with its own credit score requirements. For example, conventional mortgage programs typically have higher credit score requirements than government-backed mortgage programs such as FHA, VA, or USDA loans.
It’s a good idea to check your credit score before you start looking for a mortgage, so you know where you stand and can take steps to improve your credit if needed. You can check your credit score for free through a number of online services, or you can request a copy of your credit report from one of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion).